About the VETERANS Park

THE VETERANS PARK

Our community has long held a deep respect and admiration for our Veterans, honoring their service through various trials over the years. We are proud to announce the introduction of Veterans Park—a new venue dedicated to celebrating the bravery and sacrifices of our service members. It is important to emphasize that this Park is not intended to replace any of the existing tributes that hold a special place in our hearts. Instead, it represents an evolution in our ongoing efforts to honor our Veterans.

A Space for Reflection and Celebration

The Veterans Park is designed to be a serene and inspiring space where community members can gather to reflect on the contributions of our Veterans. The Park will be beautifully landscaped space, with the Walkway of Honor, and memorials that pay homage to our service members. It is a testament to our enduring commitment to recognize and celebrate the courage of those who have served in the Armed Forces.

Building on 
a Rich Tradition

Our community’s tradition of honoring Veterans is rich and varied, with numerous monuments, ceremonies, and events that commemorate their service. Veterans Park will complement these existing tributes, offering a new venue where we can continue to express our gratitude. By creating this park, we aim to build on our traditions, enhancing our ability to come together and honor the sacrifices made by our Veterans.

Looking Ahead

As we look forward to the opening of Veterans Park, we remain committed to preserving the tributes that have been a cornerstone of our community’s recognition of veterans. This new park is a testament to our evolving efforts to honor those who have served, providing a space where future generations can learn about and appreciate the sacrifices made by our veterans. Together, we can create a space that honors our veterans in a meaningful and lasting way. The New Veterans Park is not just a new venue; it is an evolution of our enduring commitment to honor and remember those who have served.
Mission and Vision

Preserving the Legacy of Service and Sacrifice.

Who we are

We are a dedicated group of veterans and community members who came together in September 2021 with one goal: to create a space that honors andappreciates all Veterans and Active Military in a lasting and impactful way.

Our leadership team includes veterans from various branches of the U.S. military, along with community leaders who share a commitment to preserving the legacy of service and sacrifice:
Leadership Team:
Jerry Janes, Sergeant, USA – Chairman
Chief Petty Officer Martha Nest, USCGR, Ret. –Treasurer
Peggy Smith – Executive Secretary
Jennifer Santangelo – Executive Assistant
Jim Brown, Captain, USA
Major General Lonnie Culver, USA, Retired
Colonel Mark W. Erwin, USA, Retired
Chief Master Sergeant Kenny Fogle, USA, Retired
Brigadier General Thomas R. Ice, USA, Retired
Chief Warrant Officer Robert V. Kelly, USA, Retired
Brigadier General Joe Lear, ARNG
Colonel Steve Mattingly, ARNG
Specialist Joseph E. Neel, USA
Corporal Kenny Nevitt, USMC
Staff Sergeant Kevin Rogers, USA, Retired
Lt. Colonel Michael A. Thomas, USA, Retired
Corporal Kenny Thomas, USMC
Sergeant Roland Williams, USAF
Johnny Warren – Executive Artistic Director- The Stephen Foster Story
Ken and Beckie Hatfield – Design
Bench sponsorship payment form for Bardstown-Nelson County Veterans Memorial Park honoring local veterans.

Together, we aim to honor our past, serve our present, and inspire future generations through this meaningful project.